A few years ago, minivans appeared to be fading out of the automotive scene. More recently, they've hinted at a comeback. Plenty of shoppers still like the interior space and versatility of a minivan despite its often-mocked, family-focused image. Owners get many of the merits of a sport-utility vehicle, with more car-like ride and handling as well as better gas mileage.
Even so, total minivan sales dropped by 11.7 percent in 2001, according to the trade paper Automotive News. Sales of Ford's Windstar sunk even further, down 19 percent. However, with 179,595 units sold, Ford placed second in the minivan sales race, comfortably ahead of the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna though trailing the league-leading Dodge Caravans.
First launched in 1995, the front-drive Windstar comes in a single size—201.5 inches long overall on a 120.7-inch wheelbase. Those dimensions are comparable to extended-length versions of the Dodge Caravan or Chevrolet Venture. Four trim levels are available: the high-volume LX, sporty SE and SEL, and luxurious Limited. Last year's SE Sport model has been dropped, but Ford continues to produce a Windstar panel van for commercial use.
Author: James M. Flammang
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